Top Attractions in Canterbury

World Heritage Site

The centre point of any visit to Canterbury is the Cathedral. It dates back to 597AD when St Augustine became the first Archbishop establishing his seat in Canterbury. This stunning cathedral has been part of England's great history, most notably the martyrdom of Archbishop Thomas Becket. The ruins of St Augustine's Abbey include the remains of the monastery where St Augustine's monks lived and worshiped. St Augustine first worshiped with his followers in St Martin's Church. These three sites are recognised as an UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Historic Buildings

Canterbury is home to Greyfriars Chapel, Britain's oldest Franciscan building which spans the River Stour. See and explore the ruins of the Norman Castle and view the Westgate Towers which has stood over the road to London for six centuries. Eastbridge Hospital was founded following the murder of St Thomas Becket to provide accommodation for poor pilgrims visiting his tomb. The building includes the early 13th century painting of Christ in Glory.

Medieval Adventure

Let The Canterbury Tales whisk you back to the 14th century England as you join Geoffrey Chaucer and his colourful characters on their pilgrimage from London to Canterbury Cathedral. This audio guide gives you an accurate recreation of medieval life.

Walking Tours

The city is also perfect to discover on foot. A 90-minute tour with one of our experienced Canterbury Guided Walking Tours is available most days. Tours commence from the Buttermarket. As the night draws in, meet the ghost hunter for a 75-minute Ghost Tour of the spooky side of Canterbury.

Museums

Discover the city's history from millions of years ago to the present in the Canterbury Heritage Museum through hands-on displays and activities. the museum includes Stephenson's original Invicta railway engine, Rupert Bear and the real Bagpuss. Step below today's Canterbury to the Roman Museum. Built around the remains of a Roman town house, you will discover what life was like in Roman Britain. The Beaney House of Art and Knowledge provides state-of-the-art exhibition galleries, interactive spaces, explorer areas and a varied programme of events and special exhibitions. The Kent Museum of Freemasonry has one of the UK's finest collections of Masonic artefacts that take you on an interactive journey through the history of Freemasonry in Kent and beyond.

Shopping

The bustling Whitefriars shopping centre in the heart of Canterbury has many high street names selling the latest fashions and big-brand designs. But there is also a large range of other shops and independent retailers along the old cobbled streets of the city including The King's Mile.

Gardens

Relax and enjoy the beauty of one of the city's gardens. Just metres from the shopping centre is Dane John Gardens providing views of the city from the top of the historic mound. Alternatively you can absorb the tranquil beauty and stroll around the delightful Westgate Gardens or the smaller Franciscan Garden in which stands Greyfriars Chapel.